Published on
November 10, 2025
Alaska Airlines is expanding its reach internationally through a partnership with Hawaiian Airlines. Hawaiian Airlines operates transpacific routes which will give Alaska the ability to operate internationally. Alaska Airlines is set to expand its service to London, Rome, and Iceland mid 2026 with the addition of brand new routes. Alaska Airlines will be operating wide-body aircraft on these routes which will be the first for the airline. This new partnership illustrates Alaska Airlines new commitment to enhancing its connectivity on the transatlantic, and discriminatory, Pacific routes. This new partnership for Alaska Airlines also indicates its intent to improve its competitiveness to global industry leaders.
Alaska Airlines is undergoing a major transformation, evolving from a regional favorite to a globally recognized carrier. Headquartered at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), the airline’s expansion is being marked by an ambitious network growth, the introduction of new aircraft, and a revamped loyalty program. This strategic shift is positioning the airline for a new chapter, both in domestic and international aviation.
A New Era for Alaska Airlines
In recent years, Alaska Airlines has taken significant steps to broaden its reach, reshaping its identity to appeal to a wider global audience. With its acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, the airline is integrating operations across the Pacific, which paves the way for greater connectivity between the West Coast and international markets.
The launch of the Atmos Rewards program signifies more than just an overhaul of the frequent flyer initiative; it is a symbol of Alaska’s new global aspirations. The program, which includes premium cobranded credit cards, marks a clear pivot toward offering more extensive services to travelers beyond just the U.S. West Coast.
This expansion strategy is taking shape through the airline’s continued growth in key domestic markets and its upcoming international routes. By 2026, Alaska will begin flights to major international destinations such as London, Rome, and Iceland. These new routes will introduce the carrier’s first widebody aircraft, allowing Alaska to compete on a larger global scale.
Expansion Plans and New Aircraft
The global reach of Alaska Airlines is set to grow exponentially. The airline’s first routes to Asia from Seattle have already opened up new markets for the carrier, and the integration of Hawaiian Airlines has strengthened operations across the Pacific. By 2026, Alaska’s flight network will further extend to Europe, with the debut of its widebody aircraft to serve routes from Seattle to London, Rome, and Iceland.
These international offerings are not merely about the destinations; they are about connecting passengers from all corners of the United States to global hubs efficiently. Alaska Airlines is positioning Seattle, San Diego, and Portland as its primary hubs to funnel passengers from across the U.S. into international flights. The introduction of new twin-aisle aircraft will facilitate these long-haul connections, marking a milestone in the airline’s expansion.
Strengthening West Coast Hubs
Alaska Airlines’ network expansion strategy is heavily focused on bolstering key West Coast hubs. San Diego International Airport (SAN) and Portland International Airport (PDX) have become pivotal points in the airline’s growth. These cities have seen increased investments in new routes, with Alaska prioritizing them for future development.
San Diego, in particular, has shown significant promise. Alaska Airlines has projected a 50% increase in departures from San Diego in the first half of 2026. This growth is driven in part by the strong performance of the Atmos Rewards program, which has seen significant enrollments in the San Diego market. The airline’s decision to expand here is further bolstered by the city’s proven loyalty and profitability, creating a solid foundation for Alaska’s future operations.
Similarly, Portland is set to evolve into a more prominent hub for Alaska Airlines. Once primarily a regional gateway, Portland will soon offer more one-stop itineraries to international destinations. The airline plans to add even more flights from PDX, expanding its offerings by 14% in the coming year. This strategic move allows Alaska to tap into a new segment of travelers seeking smoother connections to global destinations.
Reaching Beyond the West Coast
As Alaska Airlines strengthens its presence on the West Coast, it is simultaneously broadening its appeal to passengers from other parts of the U.S. Cities like Raleigh, Tampa, and Pittsburgh will soon be able to access international destinations through one-stop connections in Seattle. This marks an important shift for the airline, as it moves from being a regional carrier to one with a national reach and international ambitions.
Passengers from these cities will benefit from the convenience of connecting flights that bring them closer to global destinations like Asia, Europe, and Oceania, all through Alaska Airlines’ expanding network. This enhanced accessibility positions the airline as a key player in the evolving landscape of U.S. aviation, with an emphasis on connecting the U.S. to key global hubs in a seamless, efficient manner.
The Seattle-Deltal Rivalry
Seattle, the home base of Alaska Airlines, remains a highly competitive market. Delta Air Lines has long dominated the Seattle market, and the rivalry between the two carriers is intensifying. With its planned expansion into international markets like Rome, Alaska is stepping up to challenge Delta’s dominance in the Pacific Northwest.
Delta has responded with its own set of initiatives, including the expansion of its premium services and lounges at SEA. However, Alaska Airlines remains confident that its “hometown carrier” advantage will be crucial in attracting passengers to its new international routes. The Seattle base continues to be a battleground for both airlines, with each carrier vying for dominance in the region’s competitive market.
The recent introduction of widebody aircraft to Alaska’s fleet is expected to give it an edge in this rivalry. These aircraft will not only serve new international routes but will also provide greater comfort and convenience for passengers on longer flights, a critical factor in attracting travelers who might otherwise choose Delta’s offerings.
Integrating Hawaiian Airlines
The merger with Hawaiian Airlines has been a critical component of Alaska Airlines’ transformation into a global airline. While Hawaiian Airlines will retain its distinct brand identity, both carriers are integrating their operations more closely, offering travelers a seamless travel experience across the Pacific.
Hawaiian Airlines’ fleet will soon include Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which will be repainted in the new Alaska livery. These aircraft will serve international routes under the Alaska brand, while Hawaiian’s Airbus A330s will undergo upgrades, including the introduction of premium economy seating. These changes are part of a broader strategy to integrate both carriers while maintaining the unique identity of each.
For travelers flying between the U.S. mainland and Hawaii, Alaska Airlines will preserve the Hawaiian brand for inter-island and Hawaii-mainland flights. The move will ensure continuity for Hawaiian Airlines’ loyal customers, while also allowing Alaska to introduce a more unified experience for international travelers.
Hawaii as a Key Connecting Hub
Hawaii is playing an increasingly important role in Alaska Airlines’ long-haul connectivity strategy. Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) is being positioned as a central hub for travelers heading to destinations in Asia and Oceania. By leveraging its network integration with Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska is positioning Hawaii as a critical stopover point for transpacific flights.
The route between Seattle and Sydney, for instance, will pass over Hawaii, making Honolulu an ideal stopover for travelers. This makes connecting through Hawaii not only a practical option but also an attractive one for passengers looking for shorter, more efficient flight connections. By positioning Hawaii as a key transit point, Alaska Airlines is enhancing its appeal for travelers bound for the Pacific Rim.
Looking Ahead: A Global Future for Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines’ expansion strategy is about more than just adding new destinations. It’s about reshaping the airline into a global brand that connects passengers to key international hubs through a network of efficient and strategically located hubs. With an expanding fleet, new aircraft, and a revamped loyalty program, Alaska is poised to become a formidable player on the global stage.
As the airline continues to grow its international presence, Alaska Airlines is positioning itself for the future of aviation. Whether through its expanding West Coast hubs, its merger with Hawaiian Airlines, or its new global destinations, Alaska Airlines is shaping up to be a key player in the increasingly competitive airline industry.
Alaska Airlines is expanding its global footprint by launching new routes to London, Rome, and Iceland in 2026, supported by the introduction of widebody aircraft. This move, alongside its merger with Hawaiian Airlines, strengthens its international presence and enhances connectivity between the U.S., Europe, and the Pacific.
In the years to come, passengers can expect to see even more ambitious international routes, a continued focus on customer loyalty, and an expanded network of hubs, all of which will make Alaska Airlines a leading choice for travelers looking to connect to the world.
